By 1812Blockhouse
The Richland County Board of Commissioners opened their meeting on Thursday not just with official business, but with a heartfelt focus on an issue that touches every corner of the community—child abuse prevention.
With March Madness in full swing, the true spotlight at the session was on a different kind of rally—one focused on raising awareness and community involvement during April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Children’s Services Takes the Floor
The meeting welcomed representatives from Richland County Children Services, including Executive Director Kara Lautzenhiser, Community Engagement Supervisor Bridget Coles, and colleague Paula Caldwell. Together, they discussed a proclamation formally recognizing April 2025 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Richland County.
Lautzenhiser emphasized a shift in the department’s messaging this year: “Doing Things Differently. Believing in Communities.” The aim is not just intervention but prevention—by building stronger networks of support for families and educating the public on the varied forms of abuse.
Startling Stats, Stronger Response
In 2024, the department investigated 1,120 cases of abuse, neglect, and dependency. Notably, physical abuse overtook neglect as the most common form of maltreatment—a shift attributed largely to increased substance use in homes.
A particularly alarming trend: 60% of approximately 500 drug-tested children involved in cases last year tested positive for substances. The team noted a growing danger from seemingly innocuous sources, such as THC gummies, which can seriously harm children if ingested.
Rallying the Community
As part of a month-long effort to raise awareness, Children Services has planned several community events:
- Kickoff Rally: April 1, 9:00–10:00 AM at Malabar Intermediate School, featuring local officials, live music, and a positive message about family resilience.
- Wear Blue Day: April 9—citizens are encouraged to wear blue in solidarity, with Buckeye Bakery’s giving away “pinwheel cookies” while supplies last.
- Blue Ribbons & Pinwheels for Prevention: 1,120 pinwheels will be on display at the Mansfield YMCA, each representing a child served by the agency last year. Blue ribbons will be tied throughout the county.
- Drive-Thru Easter Celebration: April 12, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM—families can enjoy treats and meet the Easter Bunny.
- 26th Annual Minority Health Fair: Participation at Providence Baptist Church.
Each initiative is designed to engage, educate, and empower families and community members to take action.
Help is Always Available
Commissioners asked a key question: “How can someone reach out to you?”
Lautzenhiser responded that anyone can call the agency at 419-774-4100 24/7—nights, weekends, holidays. “We’re always available,” she said.
Leadership and Light
Commissioners praised the efforts of Children Services and acknowledged the breadth of what defines child abuse today—far beyond physical acts. The courthouse and Central Park gazebo will feature blue this month to show community support, and each commissioner received a personalized pinwheel with a message reminding them of the stakes—and the children—behind the statistics.
A Final Word
With business concluded, the commissioners recessed for executive session and later adjourned. But the message remained clear: Child Abuse Prevention Month isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action, compassion, and believing in the power of community.
Be sure to turn on the sound!
